I am a healthy 23-year-old woman and had never experienced any real health concerns. I walk the same route every morning to work, but on this particular morning, I was out of breath almost instantly.
When I sat at my desk, I was still unable to catch my breath. It felt like the air was really thick, and my lungs were working overtime just to take in enough air.
Two hours later, I drove myself to the emergency department, where they took a blood test and found my D-dimer level was elevated. After that, I had an ultrasound, a heart echo, and a CT scan, which revealed multiple large blood clots in all lobes of both lungs. I was in complete shock as I never thought anything like this would happen to me.
The doctor determined the cause to be the oral contraceptive pill, that I had been taking since I was 16. I was later diagnosed with factor V Leiden (heterozygous), and after being on blood thinners for six months, I am now off them and doing well.
This experience has given me a new perspective on life. Surviving something so serious made me realize how fragile health can be, even when you feel young and invincible. I’ve learned to prioritize my well-being and not to feel guilty about taking time for self-care.
I am forever grateful that I went to the doctor straight away, even though I was so hesitant at the time. Never let embarrassment stop you from getting help. I almost didn’t go because I was worried about it being nothing, but going saved my life. Your health is far more important than worrying about what others might think.
Resources
Birth Control
Factor V Leiden
Know Your Risk
